THE IDLE CRAFTER

Sorry....

2010-03-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone...

I bet you thought I had dropped off the face of the earth!

This is a really hard posting, but has to be done.......

I am giving up Stampin Up! as a demonstrator, mainly due to my continual bad health. I have thought long and hard about it and discussed it with Jules my SU mum (who has been absolutely fabulously supportive), and also my hubby, and now feel I must stop, as I don't know how I feel day to day.

I am still going to support Jules and hopefully attend her classes and still see the other Jems, but I can't promise to do workshops and parties if I have to cancel all the time because I am not well.

So, to all those who have supported me in any way...thank you for being such good friends/customers/blog readers etc etc!!

Who knows, this time next year I may be fit and well again (I SO hope I will be) so could re-start as a demonstrator.....watch this space for the return of THE IDLE CRAFTER!!!

with love and thanks to all

Elaine xxx

I'M BACK....

2009-12-14T05:04:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

It's so lovely to be back in this cold and wet country!!

We had the most fantastic time - and I celebrated my birthday at a show called the Fantasmic Show in Disney's Hollywood Studios....it was wonderful...fireworks, water displays and all the characters...just magical!! I was then dragged out and the whole auditorium (2,000 plus) sang Happy Birthday to me!!! so it was just so much fun!

And I was only poorly for 4 of the days there - and was able to sit outside in the sunshine whilst feeling dreadful!

my lovely birthday cake which hubby arranged at this fabulous Italian Restaurant..they sing Happy Birthday in Italian...it sounded so lovely!
My god daughter Lauren, was just in awe...and was the giddiest Tinkerbell I have ever seen!

she is just Tinkerbell mad!!

with another favourite of hers...Daisy Duck...

Dave Lauren and me ...the trees were just fantastic!

The fireworks at Magic Kingdom were unbelievable - the castle lights changed colours all through the evening, and when the fireworks started, Tinkerbell came down a wire from the point of the castle above our heads and all the way down to the far end of the park!

the whole evening just made me so emotional....you get so caught up in all the magic and excitement......still a big kid at 52!!!!
As for Crafting...haven't managed to do a thing yet...but hope to get on and do some this week, but hubby hurt his back yesterday and is in agony today, so looks like I will be helping him out, as he can hardly walk, can't drive and when he manages to sit down, he is in pain and then can't get up - he is so stubborn though and won't stay still and rest it for 24 hours.... but that's my Dave!!

Thank you all too for the lovely cards I received - all beautifully made and look lovely on my mantlepiece....you are kind!

love Elaine xx

Love you and leave you!!

2009-11-21T13:01:00.000-08:00

Just a note to let you all know that I haven't abandoned you, but will be on holiday in sunny Florida for 2 weeks from Monday...and I haven't been able to get 2 weeks worth of blogs and photos ready to post, so The Idle Crafter will indeed be ....Idle!!

will restart again once back and recharged and raring to go!!

love Elaine xx

Anf the winner is...

2009-11-17T00:41:00.001-08:00

JUST A QUICK POSTING TO LET YOU KNOW THAT THE WINNER OF THE BLOG CANDY DRAWN BY MY HUBBY IS...........

Sue from USA

so Sue if you could contact me asap with your details ..I can get this bundle into the post for you

pop back later for some more photos

Elaine x

Oh Christmas Tree....

2009-11-16T02:22:00.000-08:00

Good morning.....what a horrible one it is too...

I have been out to do the shopping and got soaked...mostly by a lovely gent who drove really fast through a puddle which soaked me...and he had a smile on his face!! If only I could run fast!!!

So, had to come home and get changed....and feel really out of sync now with everything I was going to do today...I go away on holiday next Monday for 2 weeks, and haven't done a thing yet!

But, I did make some Christmas cards yesterday...quite a batch of them actually!

I used the Wondrous Gift stamp set and made pots using different bits of the Merry Moments Christmas papers...and some of the retired Christmas papers

I glittered the stars with SU glitter and put a bow on the pot!

I got quite carried away and made over 20!! They were so fast to make...quite a production line we had running with my daughter cutting out the pots for me!

DON'T FORGET IT IS THE LAST DAY FOR MY BLOG CANDY...JUST SCROLL DOWN TO ENTER!

Will post the winner tomorrow

Elaine x

BLOG CANDY

2009-11-16T02:11:00.000-08:00

TO WIN THIS BLOG CANDY........

* leave me a comment

* add your name to my followers list (unless you already are!!)

* link my blog to yours

CLOSING DATE IS 16th NOVEMBER AT 6pm

I have photographed the blog candy as one above and then split for you to look at easily! The winner wins everything in the photos

Paper Mania and Making Memories embellisments

Jolees

6x6 Paper Pad and stickers and embellisments

GOOD LUCK!!!

Chocolate Tree Treats....

2009-11-15T09:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there!

As promised here are a couple of the little Tree Chocolate treats I made... the photos are not good sorry!!

they are made using the Christmas papers and measure approx 3 x 2 inches

Great for using all those small bits of paper up!!

Here is the teeny bar of chocolate I used!!

Have just made another 25 for Children in Need Day on Friday and will be making the same again for the Church fair on Saturday...so quick and easy once you get going!

Hope you like..

Love Elaine x

LAST DAY TOMORROW FOR THE BLOG CANDY....CHECK BELOW!!!

The Magic Key....

2009-11-14T08:47:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone!

how is your day going? Hopefully you are inside nice and warm, away from this horrible weather with the wind and rain and storm brewing up.....horrid!!

a good time for crafting though!!

I was thinking back to when my girls were small (over 24 years ago now..) and the problem we had with our house...no chimney and of course at Christmas, Santa needs the chimney! So, I made a special key (which you can buy all over now) and we hung it on the door and the girls were really happy with this..........as Santa could let himself in and leave the presents!!

I tried to remember what I made, but it was so long ago...anyway I decided I would use a door hanger style pouch and make a key to go in it...then it can be hung on the door!
I used the Merry Moments Christmas papers and some gold card for the key. I found a poem on the computer which with some alteration was perfect.

I so enjoyed making this and it brought back so many happy memories.

My eldest daughter Nicola called this afternoon, and when she saw it, she was so excited and wants me to make her one....she is only 27 years old!! But if I make her one, then Helen my youngest (at 25 years old) will want one too!! Better get cracking then!!

Right, off to make the tea and hope to see you tomorrow with some little Christmas treats to hang on the tree...

Elaine xx

SCROLL DOWN FOR THE BLOG CANDY !!

Chocolate Coins....

2009-11-13T08:09:00.000-08:00

Hi there and hope you are not having an unlucky Friday 13th!!

I have been sat making some little gifts for our Christmas Fair at Church for next Saturday. I bought some lovely big Chocolate Gold Coins and thought about adapting a template I had made for something a while ago. I customised it to fit 3 coins and then one for 1 coin....and I am rather pleased with the result!!

I used Old Olive and Real Red CS and the new Christmas papers Merry Moments

I used the round scalloped punch and circle punches to make the embellishments

this is the size of the gold coin I used!!

and an 'arty farty' side view!!

Once I had got the template correct.....it was really quite easy to put together...so I am going to have a go making afew more tomorrow in other colours! I am also going to make a mini one to fit a small gold coin in to use as a tree decoration, so hopefully I will have photos of that tomorrow too!

thanks for popping by!

Elaine xx

DON'T FORGET MY BLOG CANDY LISTED JUST BELOW!!!

Advent.....and counting!!

2009-11-12T01:44:00.001-08:00

Hi everyone!

Well, feeling much better today....I missed yesterday as didn't feel too cracking again, but had started to make this Advent Calendar/Box, so finished it off this morning in the early hours...listening to the owl hooting and the fox trying to find food in the garden....what a noisy night!!

I have moved my workroom (yes..again!) and now my workroom is a spare double bedroom, and all my craft items are in the small spare bedroom, and I am working upstairs (my house is a split level..sleep downstairs and sit upstairs!!). Having sorted out through my boxes a couple of weeks ago, I found a bag full of matchboxes which I must have bought to make something....don't know what....anyway, I thought I would make a small Advent Box using these...I have seen it in a magazine somewhere but can't remember where, so did my own take on it, using Stampin Up Christmas Papers and stickers from the Scrapbooking Set called Christmas Jingle which is such a fantastic bargain...2 sheets each 12x12 Cardstock in Chocolate Chip/Real Red/Old Olive/Very Vanilla... 3 sheets 12x12 of 2 designs of double sided paper and 6 sheets of self adhesive die cut stickers (2 of each design) all for £15.50 ......I have used this set on an 6x6 album...made cards....made this Advent Box and I still have lots left!!

Difficult to explain how I made it quickly...but if you would like instructions, please email me on riolaw2009@yahoo.com and I will endeavour to explain!!

Now....spot the deliberate mistake .......I have just realised I have forgotten to put the numbers on the drawers!!!

Check posting above for Blog Candy!!

Have a nice day

Elaine x

Hi....

2009-11-10T01:46:00.000-08:00

Sorry I have not been blogging these past few days....been out of sorts again (just my usual illness!) For those of you who think 'gosh, she always seems to be ill'...yes I am! It's all connected with when I had breast cancer and there are days when I feel really bad and take to my bed....I don't even feel like crafting on these days....so I must be poorly!

Today I feel a little better, so I hope to be doing something later in the way of card making.

My real reason for coming on today, was to congratulate my lovely SU mum Julie on her wonderful achievements at the SU Convention in Germany over the weekend....you can read all about it here she is such an inspiration to me and to the team - it's very well deserved!

Right, off to do some catching up with bits'n'bobs!

Elaine x

PS Giving away some Blog Candy tomorrow....

LOVELY AFTERNOON...

2009-10-28T13:04:00.000-07:00

I have just spent a lovely afternoon with some really nice ladies in Luddenden Foot, in Halifax doing a workshop. We made 2 cards and a small gift box, and this was the Christmas card we made....the stamp is from Silent Night and we used Heat and Stick powder and then Dazzling Diamonds glitter....boy did we sparkle!! It is so easy to use, and the effect is fantastic! So, when the SU parcel with their goodies arrives in a few days, that part of Yorkshire will be glittered to the hilt!!

We used Handsome Hunter CS, and some Red, and Very Vanilla and Always Artichoke ribbon. The image was stamped using Close to Cocoa, and a Versamark Pad to adhere the Heat and Stick powder to - heat it up and add the glitter and then heat again to set...

So, thank you to Chris for having me, and all the lovely girls...Susan, Susan, Lynn, Clare, Julie, Angela and Liz, for being such wonderful students!!!

Elaine x

Pinky Purpley Christmas...

2009-10-27T12:03:00.000-07:00

Hi there..

I made this at 5am this morning...couldn't sleep, so it was a toss up between ironing or making a card...!!The camera hasn't picked the colours out very well (still having problems with it, but hoping that Santa will be thinking about little old me on Christmas Day...hint hint!).I went for a completely different colour theme and way out of my comfort zone, but I was so pleased with the end result.

I used Passion Pink and Orchid Oppulance CS - stamped the 'branch' using Baroque Motifs. I then stamped the square snowflake from Perfect Presents in the same colours as above onto white card. I then sponged all over using these colours and punched 3 circles out using the new punch out this time (the larger circle 1 and 3/4") - sponged round the edges using the same colours. Arranged them on the card - used the silver cord from my stash and then accented the snowflakes with Dazzling Diamonds.

So, might get up early again tomorrow as my mojo seems to kick in then!

Elaine x

More Autumn......

2009-10-25T03:43:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

everything here is very quiet today.....both hubby and I have lost our voices, so instead of wasting energy squeaking at each other...we are either just ignoring or doing sign language!!! Poor Dave, since he retired from the Police last November he seems to be picking up viral infections, colds and flu etc...and then sharing them with me - and of course as I have no immune system, then I catch them all! So, off to my workroom for some r and r, and he is sat watching TV...unheard of for him as he is always doing something!

Anyway, enough about us... I made this card yesterday using another new SU stamp set, which is from the Hostess section and a level 2..

I used Pumkin Pie and Old Olive CS (althought the Old Olive looks like it has been bleached, but it is just the photo!!)

I stamped a full sheet of white card all over with the stems in various shades of green, and then some of the smaller flowers in Pumpkin Pie, Rose Red, Bashful Blue and So Saffron. Stamped some of the bigger flowers and cut them out and added them using the 3D dimensionals. I have enough left from the stamped sheet to make about 3 more cards!

It's a lovely set and so versatile....and if you would like to host a workshop, then this could be one of your choices (providing that over £300 of products is sold...sounds alot. but not when people see how good they are and purchase lots and lots!!)

Just contact me on riolaw2009@yahoo.com

Right, off to finish something which I have been making for a friend, so will post pictures of this later....enjoy your day!

Elaine xx

Autumnal......

2009-10-22T03:17:00.000-07:00

When I first saw this stamp set in the new catalogue...I wasn't all that keen, but when I saw the wonderful creations made on other SU blogs, I decided to buy it - so glad I did!! It is called Autumn Days and is £19.95 (really good price!)

I used the leaf stamp and stamped in various colours of autumn ..... Pumpkin Pie, Old Olive, More Mustard, Close to Cocoa and Barely Banana. I used Old Olive and Pumpkin Pie CS, Old Olive and Pumpkin Pie ribbon and the sentiment is from The Circle of Friendship stamp set.

I have made about 10 of these now as so enjoyed making them yesterday!!

Good to get the camera back and working....just need to get a decent photographer now!!

Enjoy your day

Elaine x

No photos.....

2009-10-21T02:01:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

Sorry I have been missing in action again, but have had another horrid virus and it has left me absolutely drained....I even had to cancel an evening we had planned with the Jems...a Pizza night and get together, but felt so dreadful, that had to cancel....but hopefully we will rearrange it and have it soon!

I have no photos for you, as my camera isn't working - I tried yesterday with my phone, but the photo was not good, so didn't download it on to the blog!

Hopefully, hubby will be able to do something with it today, and then I can get back to normal! I have missed blogging...but watched so much rubbishy daytime TV! How sad is that!

take care Elaine x

Greenhouse Garden...

2009-10-15T00:43:00.000-07:00

good to be back....sorry I have been very remiss in blogging this week, but not been too well with this viral infection of cough and cold which my darling grandaughters shared with me!
I haven't felt like doing much in the way of card making, but last night I actually got myself together and made 3 cards!! The one below I have made before, but liked it so much did another one!!

I have actually copied it from the SU catalogue on page 43, and it is using the Greenhouse Garden stamp set and En Francais background stamp.

I absolutely loved making this card and this stamp set is one of my favourites of the new ones which have been brought in for this coming year. The set is £22.95 and the ideas are endless!!

I stamped the background using En Francais in Bashful Blue, then stamped flowers and stems using Certainly Celery, Regal Rose and Ballet Blue. I tore the stamped image across the top and inked the edge in the Ballet Blue, then mounted it on to Pretty in Pink CS, and then on to Ballet Blue CS. I mounted the whole bit onto a white card. I stamped a small piece of white card with the En Francais, and a couple of flowers, cut it to size and mounted it on to the pink and then the blue CS. I stamped 2 flowers and cut them out and used a gem brad from the Circle Ice set for the middle of the big one.

I really, really love this card and will do some variations of colours with it

Hope you like!

Elaine x

I'm back...

2009-10-04T08:14:00.000-07:00

hi everyone....so nice to be back in this cold and windy city!! we landed at Manchester yesterday on our return flight from Malta......was it rather bumpy.....YES IT WAS!!! and rather frightening too, but at least we are back safe and sound thanks to the wonderful pilot!

and back home to the NEW CATALOGUE! woo hoo! sooooo excited about all the new products in it, and I can't wait until the box of goodies arrives....hopefully in time for my Catalogue Launch Party this Thursday!

Sorry.....no pictures for today, but there will be some tomorrow!

Elaine x

LAST CHANCE Stamping Up products...

2009-09-30T09:24:00.000-07:00

THIS POST WILL STAY AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG ....

so please scroll down for daily blogs!!!

THIS IS THE LIST OF 'LAST CHANCE' PRODUCTS FROM THE 2008/09 CATALOGUE!

ONLY AVAILABLE FROM 1st to 30th SEPTEMBER

to look at the 'Last Chance List' please click HERE ....

There are some fantastic offers on with 25% and 50% off some of the products - I will be placing orders at the end of the week, but don't panic if you can't order before then as I will be placing more orders throughout the month

Please contact me on riolaw@freeuk.com

Elaine x

Holiday time......

2009-09-25T09:13:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!

this will be my last post for a week as going away to Malta for a lovely holiday!! (hopefully!!)

wanted to share this little box and gift I made with my grandchildren...

We used Sweet Always papers and then used a shot glass (plastic) with a lid , which I had ordered from ebay (50 of them to use at a workshop with the kids!) I have put chocolate raisins in this one...but when I do the workshop with the children it will be coming up to Christmas, and we will use the new Christmas papers coming out on the 1st October, so will be using the chocolate raisins as 'Reindeer Droppings'......kids humour!!

They were really fun and quick to do....and I even adapted a template I had to make it!

Right...that's all for now - see you in a week!

Elaine x

workshops...

2009-09-23T09:45:00.000-07:00

just a quick note to let you know a couple of changes to my workshops coming up!

NEW CATALOGUE WORKSHOP!

Thursday 8th OCTOBER at 7.30pm

at Elaine's

Make and Takes - Free Raffle - 10% of orders of £25 or more + free gift

(contact me on riolaw@freeuk.com)

********

CHRISTMAS FULL OF FUN!!

Saturday 31st OCTOBER - 10am - 3pm

£15 (inc all materials)

come and make boxes - cards - gift tags - ornaments etc..

at Elaine's (contact riolaw@freeuk.com)

PLACES LIMITED!

*******

YOU'D BETTER WATCH OUT....!!

Thursday 10th DECEMBER 7 - 9.30PM

£8 (inc all materials)

at Elaine's (contact riolaw@freeuk.com)

need that last minute card for someone special...gift tags...gift box etc

come along for festive fun and mince pies and mulled wine!

********

All for now folks!

Elaine x

Little House on the...Lily??!!

2009-09-22T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

you know I said I would be back today with something made from one of Lauren Meader's templates....well....I lie!!

I sat and made up this little house! I have seen them in mags and other blogs hanging from Christmas trees, or used as an Advent Calendar (24 of them!) It took a while to get the dimensions right, but I thoroughly enjoyed making it.

sorry that it isn't hanging on a Christmas tree branch....a lily stem was the nearest I had!

I used Stampin Up CS, and the Christmas tree stamp is from one of the sets which has 25% discount, called Happy Winter. Even the little holly sprig is from the new Scrapbooking set called Christmas Jingle Simply Scrappin'.

My daughter came and saw them and wants me to make her some for her tree so I suppose I had better get started.......only 13 weeks on Friday till the 25th!

Elaine x

Back into the workroom!!!

2009-09-21T05:05:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Sorry I have been missing for afew days, but not felt like crafting, but then yesterday just sat in my workroom and made this ...bit of a poor specimen really, but at least I have got back to it!!

I used stamin up CS and paper, ribbon and sentiment stamp - but used an image I coloured in way back in the summer when I had the swine flu!!

I quite like the colours - hardly anything to it, and yet it took me nearly an hour to decide and make! Even the photo is rather naff!!!

I am now going to make one of Lauren Meader's templates....call back tomorrow for this!!!!
enjoy your day

Elaine x

Tree Trimming....sneaky peak!!

2009-09-14T06:37:00.000-07:00

Just had a lovely hour making these Christmas cards..........

so you can have a sneaky peak at one of the new stamp sets coming out in the new catalogue!!! It's called 'Tree Trimmings' and I just LOVE it!!

I am really quite a traditionalist when it comes to Christmas - red and green and gold....some would say boring!!

In this set, there are 3 bauble stamps and a string to hang then on the tree....

For the card above, I stamped the baubles in Real Red on to Vanilla CS and then cut them out. I wanted something that looked like a branch of a Christmas tree to hang them on.....I used the swirl out of the 'Baroque Motifs' set which I haven't used much yet. I stamped it in Old Olive onto Vanilla CS and then positioned the baubles and masked and stamped the strings to hang them on.

I used SU 3 dimensionals to raise them, and used the Stampin Glitter to make them sparkle. I mounted the Vanilla onto some Real Red CS, added some Old Olive Ribbon, and the sentiment is from 'Seasons of Joy' set, mounted on the scalloped and oval punches.

For this card, I did the same again with the baubles, and glittered them. I used the swirl stamp from 'Season of Joy' set again to look like a branch.....and then stuck the baubles directly on to the card. I used some Always Artichoke ribbon and the sentiment is again from 'Season of Joy'. I mounted the card onto red, and then on to Vanilla CS.

Hope you like them, as much as I have enjoyed making them!
Elaine x

Jems Challenge

2009-09-14T04:06:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!

Sorry not been on the blog for a few days but not been well, and spent abit of time at the hospital with this trigeminal neuralgia.........anyone who has had any type of nerve pain will know how unbearable the pain is, but I think I may have it under better control now, as they have given me some better painkillers and hopefully an injection at some point this week.

So crafting has gone by the wayside I'm afraid....but I did manage to get the Jems Challenge done set by Anne!! Took me ages as I had really lost my drive, but once I started it seemed to come along okay!

hope to be back tomorrow as doing some cards this afternoon

Elaine x

Happy Winter.....

2009-09-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

You will have noticed on my blog that there are alot of the products in the current catalogue which are on the 'LAST CHANCE LIST'.

Here is a set of Christmas Cards and Box I made using the stamp set HAPPY WINTER and designer papers WINTERGREEN.
(sorry the photos are abit dark....don't know what happened there!)

The stamp set will no longer be available after 30th September and is a bargain at the discounted price of £8.21......it's a really versatile little set. If you would like to purchase this set before it leaves....contact me on riolaw@freeuk.com .

thanks for popping by!

Elaine x

Sweet always.....

2009-08-31T09:44:00.000-07:00

I am of course...sweet always......but I really mean the lovely Stampin Up papers!

I have been preparing for my class using the Fun and Fast Notes Stamp set, and I thought I would show you the result for the lovely hedgehog stamp.

I used Pink Passion and Only Orange CS, and the lovely Sweet Always papers.

I just added a few brush strokes of Chocolate Chip/Close to Cocoa Ink and then some of SU glitter for the butterfly

I then made a small pouch bag to put some choccies in. again using the same as for the card

An arty farty angle of the pouch!!
Hope those coming to the class will enjoy making this little set....I did!!

Elaine x

Feeling all Christmassy....

2009-08-29T11:35:00.001-07:00

Hi there!

I haven't had a very productive week unfortunately, but today, I decided to get my inspiration going again by doing something Christmassy.....so, I put a DVD on...The Santa Clause, and went into crafting mode!!

I decided to make some little gift boxes and used the new template from Lauren Meader called 'Tucked Away'. She has made 2 sizes, and I made the small one....which is so CUTE!!!

(The photos are abit naff...sorry!)

I made 2 boxes and 2 cards to go with them...

I used a good Christmas colour in Real Red CS, and used some of the paper from the 'I Wish' set (P73 in catalogue!) - I had done a Mini Scrapbook Album class using this set and really liked the papers an stickers - and luckily had some left!

For this one, I used Mellow Moss CS, and some of the retired 2007 papers 'Wintergreen'. I used Certainly Celery ribbon and one of the buttons from the Soft Subtles set.

The sentiment is stamped using the Season of Joy stamp set - I just love this set as it has so many lovely stamps...and it was this set that made me join Stampin Up! My lovely SU mum Jules did a party at my house and we used this set to make a card, and she brought lots of cards, 3D projects which she had made using the set......and I bought it!

A not so good picture showing the inside of the box!

Well, that's it for today - but having a full day tomorrow in my workroom, as need to prepare for my Fun and Fast Notes Class on September 12th.....only 1 place left now!!

Enjoy your Bank Holiday weekend..

Elaine x

and the winner is!!!

2009-08-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

SASKIA.........

well done to you for being the lucky winner!!

If you could let me have your address, I can then send the prize off to you...

just email me at riolaw@freeuk.com

Thanks to all who participated and left me lovely comments - and especially as you are now my followers too!! Keep looking for more blog candy in a couple of weeks..

Elaine x

BLOG CANDY ALERT!!

2009-08-25T05:31:00.000-07:00

BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY!!

THIS POST IS NOW CLOSED AND THE WINNER DRAWN

(ends 25th August at 6pm)

I know they are Christmas goodies and it is only August

but .....it is never too early to start making cards!

These are wonderful papers and a stamp set designed from the BLONDE MOMENTS Christmas products designed by Jay and Dyan from ART FROM THE HEART (one of my favourite places to go shopping and doing classes)

There are:

8 12x12 papers and 1 stamp set of angels

(plus 1 surprise gift for the lucky winner!)

For a chance to win please

*become one of my followers!! (unless you are one!!)

* add a link to your side bar for the blog candy!!

* leave me a comment!!

Good luck!!! Elaine x

(THIS WILL STAY AT THE TOP OF THE BLOG TILL 25th AUGUST)

Sad.....

2009-08-17T03:05:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

Sorry not posted for a few days, but my lovely friend from church, was taken into hospital after being diagnosed with terminal cancer, and sadly, passed away this weekend, very peacefully in her sleep......I haven't felt in the mood for crafting, so sorry there hasn't been any photos etc. I just wanted to let you know that I will be back soon.

Elaine x

Painted card

2009-08-10T01:33:00.000-07:00

Another card made for a friend....not all SU products but the stamp is from the Mini Catalogue and called Soft Summer - it's a lovely stamp and suitable for all uses. It has a shadow and outline stamp, so is very versatile. I painted the image then with the SU ink pads and water pens. The sentiment is from God's Blessings

I have the grandchildren this week and my god daughter.....and the weather is foul!! Just typical, so we may be doing some crafting today!

enjoy your day!

Elaine x

(DON'T FORGET TO ENTER FOR THE BLOG CANDY ABOVE!)

AWOL!!

2009-08-09T03:06:00.001-07:00

Sorry not been on the blog....believe it or not...

I got stung by a wasp on Friday and my arm has been swollen and painful, so I couldn't even hold a pen - which meant I couldn't officiate at the wedding at our church or my god-daughters birthday party craft session!! So had a really 'fed up' day yesterday! Plus the computer has all changed, so I have lost all my photos of my cards and projects I have taken to put on the blog - so will have to do those again!!

Here is one I made earlier in the week for someone at church...

The paper is from my favourite SU paper collection at the moment - LeJardin (now retired but you can still purchase it until September!!) I used Bashful Blue and Barely Banana CS and the Dragonfly is from the Hostess Gift Set Organic Grace (love this set too!)

The sentiment is from God's Blessings and the ribbon is my own!

Hope you have a lovely day! Elaine x

DON'T FORGET TO LEAVE A COMMENT FOR THE BLOG CANDY ABOVE...YOU MAY BE LUCKY!!!

Pinks and purples...

2009-08-05T02:21:00.000-07:00

Good morning!!

hope you are all feeling okay today - at least the weather is brighter. I am taking the grandchildren to see G Force in 3D this afternoon, so no time for crafting today!

But here is one I made earlier....

Nothing from SU today ....still using the scraps from the box!

Don't forget to come back later for the Blog Candy

Elaine x

Baby Blues.....

2009-08-04T02:15:00.000-07:00

No, I am not feeling broody!!! I just made the card using Baby Blue and Pink! I am trying to use all my scraps up - there is a recession you know!!

The only item not used from SU is the image....but I did paint it using the SU Ink pads!

Right, I am having a nice day in my craftroom today...I am doing my God daughter's 12th Birthday party on Saturday - what I mean is that I am doing a crafting session for 8 girls, who want to make 'something'!!! So going to have a play and plan!

Come back soon.....will have some Blog Candy tomorrow for you!!

enjoy your 'rainy' day!

Elaine x

Shades of green....

2009-08-02T06:37:00.001-07:00

Hi all!

I had a miserable day yesterday - wasn't it just awful!! I set myself a challenge in the morning to put my hand in my scrap box and bring out some paper and then make 2 cards using bits to match it....so it was green!

The papers I had picked out are actually from a retired set called Le Jardin, but I really love it as the colours are very neutral and the designs are just gorgeous!

I used Mellow Moss, Sage Shadow and Barely Banana CS and papers from the Le Jardin, and then used Old Olive Ribbon, and the Curvy Verses sentiment (these are so versatile that I can highly recommend them!)

I then used some of the pearls from the Pretties Kit to accent the flowers

I used the stamp from Mr & Mrs stamp set - I use this one such a lot as it looks good on any type of card!

I stamped the image and sentiments using Old Olive

I was actually quite pleased with the way they turned out!

Right off to a BBQ now - thank goodness the weather is brighter....

Elaine x

3D projects...

2009-07-29T02:30:00.000-07:00

sorry I am a day later than promised......

I absolutely love Lauren Meaders My Time, My Creation site. She does some fantastic templates for 3D projects - this was one of hers from June called Milk Made...this is the mini version which is really so cute. Check out above and see her lovely projects.

I used Chocolate Chip and Close to Cocoa CS and Tea and Crumpets papers from SU, Oval All stamp sentiment and Oval Scalloped Punch and Oval Punch, Earth Elements and Neutrals Buttons - again from SU

I am going to make the bigger set today I think!!

Enjoy your day

Elaine x

Good to be back......

2009-07-27T01:15:00.000-07:00

It's so good to be back ....almost on form now!!

Had a lovely day yesterday making a couple of cards and some 3D projects - I was so tired after doing them that I had to go and have a lie down!! My brain hasn't had to work for 2 weeks so I think it went in to shock!

Whilst I was laid up, and bored beyond belief....I decided to colour afew of my Magnolia images. I decided to paint them using the water brushes and ink pads from SU - I had such a lovely time, and did so many - very therapeutic and I can highly recommend it!

So, here are the 2 cards I made - not very inspiring as I seem to have lost my mojo for ideas etc.

I don't even know which stamp it is!!! I used Real Red and Bashful Blue CS, inked the edges in Real Red and added some Real Red Ribbon. I also used Glossy Accents to highlight the flowers.

I used Real Red and Only Orange CS and Washington Apple paper - I then used Glossy Accents on the heart and knee patch and used Stickles for the wings.

Back tomorrow with some other bits n bobs!

Have a good day

Elaine xx

Poorly girl......

2009-07-19T11:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

just a quick note to let you know that Elaine has been really ill with Swine Flu these past few days, and is confined to bed without visitors......and she is too sick to even do any 'crafting'.

As soon as she feels okay, she will be back to blogging.............................and crafting!

she sends her love to all her friends

xxx

Bold Brights

2009-07-07T09:52:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

hope you are all well and have had a good weekend. We had a lovely fun class last night making cards using the bold brights - these are some of the cards we made (photos not very good so sorry about that!)

we used lots of the different stamps and papers, and a good time was had by all!

Elaine x

Is it really July??!

2009-07-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Sorry I have been absent for a few days - time just flies by doesn't it...I can't believe it is July and halfway through the year! I have had a busy few days as held a Strawberry Tea for Breast Cancer on Wednesday, so have been busy preparing for that. It was a fantastic day and so far we have raised £358.02 - I am absolutely delighted!! It was just so hot though!

I thought I would show you these cards which my grandchildren made whilst at mine - I think they are really good and very creative. They love to 'glue and stick' and have always done crafts and baking with me whenever they come, and I have to say I am very proud of them!

Well done to Chloe and Nicole!

I would also like to wish my SU mum Julie, a very Happy Birthday for today - she doesn't look a day over 21!! Have a good one Jules!

love Elaine xx

Box a Mania!!

2009-06-23T05:03:00.000-07:00

I held my postponed 'Box-a-Mania' class last night, and I have such a lovely group of ladies who come to these classes - we have such fun and I don't know how they put up with me really! Here is a selection of their boxes - I just remembered as they were packing up to go that I hadn't taken any photos of there goodies....they did so well despite my teaching which was all jumbled! But well done ladies - proud of you!!

Lisa and Moira

Heather, Annette and Jackie

Moira and Kate

all contemplating................or looking thoroughly confused!!

Elaine x

Stir crazy crafter..

2009-06-17T03:37:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! what an absolutely dreadful day it is turning out to be! Really fed up as now managing to get about and was looking forward to sitting out in the garden for 15 mins with a good book (well craft mags!) - now doing it sat inside...

Going absolutely stir crazy as cannot sit for too long - but more comfortable lying down - and guess what??!! you can't do any crafting this way! so desperate to get back into doing it - I still have a card to finish from one of the Julies Gems girls, Siobhan...started it when I received it, but with being taken into hospital, it is still where I left it on my work desk! Will get it finished girls, promise - might be a late showing, but it will be done!

Anyway, here is another of those I made earlier - a Card wallet with card!

not sure where I got the template for this one as just print them off as I see them on various blogs and sites (usually making a note of where they are from, so that I can mention the designer!)Made using all SU products Earth Tones CS and Washington Apple Papers..the only thing which is mine is the orange gingham ribbon!

hope you like Elaine x

Congratulations!

2009-06-16T01:43:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the 3 who left comments for the Blog Candy!! Shame there wasn't more - but as there were only 3 entered, I will send something to the 2 runners up to compensate!

The winner is (drawn at random)

Milly Moo Cards

congratulations...if you would send me an email with your name and address, I will post it on to you - and if Go Canucks Go and Sarah Pitts would let me have their addresses I will send you a little consolation prize!

thank you for entering and keep looking for the next Blog candy in July!

Elaine x

Missing in Action!

2009-06-15T03:19:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone...........

sorry I haven't been posting on my blog, but had an unexpected visit to hospital last week, am now home but should be resting in bed........well that lasted 4 days!! I am being good really, and do rest, but going stir crazy now, so trying to move around a little to stretch my muscles!

Should have been going to Scotland on Saturday, but unfortunately, won't be able to sit in the car and travel all that way, so have cancelled it.

anyway, here is a project I made a couple of weeks ago using a template from Lauren Meader at My Time, My Creations, My Stampendence
who designs templates called 'My Timeless Templates' which are fantastic. This one is called 'From the File of...'I used the retired papers called Cutie Pie which I just love, as the colours go with so much!
It is something to use for those who love to write - a notebook, stamps pouch and notelets

I made this little note book from some thicker card and backed it using the papers - I then used clip rings to hold it together

I made a little stamps pouch out of So Saffron and used some of my own rub on letters

I then made some notelets to go with the set

and this is what it looks like when all together!

Elaine x

BLOG CANDY.....

2009-06-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

BLOG CANDY.....

(NOW CLOSED)

ends 15th JUNE at 8pm

(winner drawn at random)

this is the Blog Candy I am giving away.....if your number is picked out you will win all 4 of these gorgeous Scrapbooking kits which can be used to make gorgeous scrapbooking pages or cards...........(sorry they are individual photos - I couldn't get them all in one!!)

For a baby girl!

For boys!

Christmas!

General!

Just leave me a comment and if possible link me to your blog and keep your fingers crossed!

Good Luck!

Elaine x

CAMERA LOCATED!!!

2009-06-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

Hooray!!!! found the camera, so have managed to take photos of the Blog Candy I have to offer.

Here are 2 more of the red/black/white cards I made the other night
I love the sentiment on the card above and have used it such alot in the past
(sorry the quality of the photos aren't fantastic... )
Back with some Stampin Up projects tomorrow!

Elaine x

THESE SENIOR MOMENTS....

2009-06-03T07:37:00.001-07:00

I have had another of those 'senior' moments today.....took the photos of the black/red/white cards and downloaded them - then remembered I needed to take a photo of the items for Blog Candy - I have put my camera down somewhere in my workroom and can't find it, even though I tidied it all up yesterday!!

So unless it turns up, there will be no Blog Candy offered today!!

Anyway, I did enjoy making the cards below - I have another 5 to show later - sorry that they are not SU items used, but I already had the goodies to make them with! I did however use Real Red SU Ink pad!

I can't even remember where they came from - but the sentiments used are my own stamps!

I really enjoyed doing them - hope you like them too!

Elaine x

I'LL JUST TIDY THAT CUPBOARD OUT.....

2009-06-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful day, and what did I decide to do.....tidy a cupboard out in my work room! Well, that led to sorting out a set of drawers..........and then another and another, and in the end, I sorted out every drawer, box and shelf!! I found lots of things I had forgotten about - you buy them and push them in a drawer for later - and then forget.............it's like Christmas when you keep finding things! I found a bag with lots of black, white and red card, flowers etc and I am going to have a go making them tonight, so watch this space for tomorrows photos of my efforts!

I did however make a quick card last night...yes just one!

I was just so tired, and had a lovely shower and went to bed - didn't do the ironing like I had intended and fell asleep reading my book...

I used Blush Blossom and Perfect Plum CS, True Friend stamp, Elegant Eggplant Ribbon, Sentiment from Very Versatile and used Perfect Plum Ink and Stampin Glitter to add a sparkle
Hope you like it - simple, but quick!

Due to the sorting out of the work room - I have found lots of things for Blog Candy, and I did promise one last week, but never got round to it - so, will sort it out tonight and put it on tomorrow - make sure you pop back!
enjoy the rest of the day....the weather is to turn tomorrow!
Elaine x

Hi........

2009-06-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been missing in action......not had a good week with one thing and another, but have spent a lovely afternoon playing about and trying to make a template for a box with a card. I had something similar bought for me, so took the box apart and amended it somewhat, and this is the result!

I ended up making 3 once I had the template sorted - one in Soft Subtles, one in Rich Regals and one in Bold Brights. This is the Soft Subtle in Bashful Blue and using the new papers from the Mini Catalogue called Tea Party.....which I absolutely love! I used Brocade Blue ribbon and a couple of flowers from my stash and Rhinestone brads - Circle Ice from SU.

The card has not photographed very well and looks rather 'insipid'. I stamped on some Whisper white card using stamps from Simply Said (my first ever set from SU!) I used Bashful Blue and Apricot Appeal inkpads - I then used some amber beads I found to go in the middle of the flowers - I couldn't find my brads, so improvised! The sentiment is again from Simply Said.

I am hoping to have some more 'therapy' in my craft room tomorrow - so keep popping back this week for some more projects - I am into 3D this week!!

Elaine x

PS. For those who have been contacting me regarding my daughter Helen, after her accident...she is doing much better, and has had her pot off, but still has alot bruising on her hand. The rest of the bruising has almost gone, but she has alot of tissue damage and is 'lumpy' in places on her arms and stomach and legs. We still have to go back to the hospital for 6th time to see the opthamologist regarding her eye - this has been of some concern, but at last seems to be now improving, and hopefully will have her last visit on the 10th June. The only thing was that she had to cancel her trip to Rome because the cabin pressure on the plane may have damaged her eye even more - thankfully she was insured!!

Her mother is still getting over the shock!!

Thanks for your continuing good wishes - much appreciated xxx

I STILL HAVE 1 PLACE LEFT FOR THE CHRISTMAS SCRAPBOOK THIS SATURDAY - PLEASE CONTACT ME ON riolaw@freeuk.com IF YOU ARE INTERESTED

CHRISTMAS.....IN MAY!!!

2009-05-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

I am holding a Scrapbooking Class on Saturday 6th June and the theme is 'Christmas'....I know who can think about Christmas in May??!! Well, when you think there is just over 7 months to this Christmas..and how quickly this year has gone so far....we had all better get cracking!

So, here are a few tasters of some of the pages we will be doing.

We hope to complete a full 6 x 6 SU album using the 'I Wish Kit' and stamps and other cardstock

If you would like to do this class with me - please contact me asap on riolaw@freeuk.com - details on my side bar under classes!

Elaine x

WATCH OUT FOR BLOG CANDY LATER THIS WEEK..!!!

I'M BACK...

2009-05-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

I have really missed doing my blog over these past couple of weeks - I feel I have missed out on so much..but will now be on top of this and will be able to post every day! Thankfully, things at this end have started to settle down now. Helen is doing so much better - still bruised and sore, but getting about much more than she was. I have been at my brother's in Berkshire for a week and didn't really want to leave her, but she has had lots of people helping her out, and to be honest, the few days away with Dave has been a tonic!

Thank you all for your lovely cards you sent me - I have just been so overwhelmed by people's kindness...you know who you are, and I appreciate the good wishes more than you will ever know!

I have made this card below several times in different papers and colours - needed to do a quick one to send to a member of the family - but couldn't get in the mode...so went for the 'old faithful'!

have a good day!

Elaine xxx

PAPER PROMOTION FOR MAY!!!

2009-05-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

FANTASTIC OFFER.....

Buy any three packs of Designer Series paper from the 2008-2009 Idea Book & Mini Catalogue (£7.75 each) and get one FREE!

for the month of May!

Please contact me if you would like to place an order, or to have a look at the selection of papers.

Elaine x

Hi...

2009-05-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

Hi there.....

well the last few days have been a real rollercoaster ride - I haven't slept much and feel emotionally drained now - so I now have a chest infection as I am below par! But at least my baby is home!!

She is doing incredibly well - but looks like she has been through the wars as she is now lovely shades of purple/black/yellow and some blue! I think the euphoria of coming home has worn off and today she looked tired and pale, but I also think that is because she has had a constant stream of visitors and family looking after her, and I know from experience (having spent many weeks in hospitals and recovering at home!) that you just get exhausted from trying to smile and be cheerful. She is still smiling though and really trying hard to keep moving as she stiffens up so much - but she is a trooper! She has had so many lovely cards...and the smell of flowers in the room is gorgeous!!

A funny story now....my mum helped on Friday by doing 3 hours of ironing for her, whilst Helen had a sleep. She put everything on hangers and took them upstairs to hang up...........Helen was so chuffed and grateful, and mum was pleased she could help..............then Helen rang me to say that she felt awful as Grandma had just ironed everything which was going to the charity shop!!!

I daren't tell her!!

Anyway, I couldn't sleep last night, well this morning so got up at 3am and made a card and then baked a cake for Helen and Adam!

Not sure about the card, as wasn't really in the mood - but a brave attempt at that time of the morning!!

Thank you....

2009-05-01T03:04:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

Can I first of all say a 'huge' thank you for all the wonderful emails/texts/phone calls etc about Helen - we have all been so overwhelmed by everyone's kindness - and it is so appreciated.

She came home today, and is able to walk with a crutch, but only one as she has a pot on her left arm due to a broken hand - in a lovely shade of purple (her fave colour!!) The purple actually matches all the bruising which is almost two thirds of her body - just her shins and lower back not being affected....so hence the phrase ...black and blue - and she certainly is! She also has alot of cuts on her face, and the bruising around her eyes is starting to come out now - that's due to the air bag. The eye surgeon said that there is no glass in her eye, but she has haemmorhaging behind the eye and she has to go back to see him on Wednesday.

We actually went past the crash site and saw the tree which she hit - no bark at the bottom, and then half way up the tree, there is a small patch with no bark and it is studded with broken glass from the windscreen. Just next to where it happened, there is a railway line too - thank goodness it didn't throw her onto that.

The Police and Fire Brigade are just stunned that she got out alive - her dad is a retired Fire Officer and he was there whilst they were cutting her out (he lives out that way so managed to get there quickly), and he was absolutely ' gobsmacked' that she didn't have more horrific injuries - the car did what it had to do and saved her life.

So, my mother is there doing her ironing - I have cleaned the house and cooked and baked for her and Adam, done the washing and hung it out - and she is resting comfortably on the settee watching CBeebies!!! (she is 25 yrs old!!) Just love her to bits!!

So, thank you again and I will post again soon

love Elaine xx

Just received a beautiful card from my lovely SU mum and sisters...Julies Jems...thank you so much - you are such a special bunch!!!

SORRY....

2009-04-29T01:30:00.001-07:00

Hi there...just to let you know that I won't be able to post for a few days - my daughter was involved in a bad car crash last night and so I will be helping out etc. Helen is still in hospital where I have been all night, she is badly bruised and cut, broken arm, shoulder and she has glass in her eye - but the car did what it had to do and saved her life - that phone call is every mother's nightmare........but she is still managing a weak smile!

Elaine x

HEATING BACK ON!!

2009-04-28T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Got up this morning and decided that the heating MUST go back on, as it was so cold. My hubby would live in Alaska as he is always warm and prefers the heating off - even in winter!! Guess who won this morning!!

Busy day today, so fortunately made a few cards at the weekend so here is my next one made using bits from the scrap box!

I do know that the CS, Paper and Stamps are all Stampin Up products!

Chocolate Chip and Creamy Caramel CS - Stamps used Season of Joy/Best Yet - Paper from Tea and Crumpets (Ribbon and gems my own!)

Have a good day!

Elaine x

Congratulations to Sarah B who has been promoted to the next level in the Stampin Up family!

PRETTY MISERABLE....

2009-04-27T06:26:00.000-07:00

Gosh, what a change to the weather - absolutely fed up today with all this rain! Good for the garden though..but all the snails and slugs have now come out of hibernation and are heading to all my bedding plants and pots I did at the weekend!

I am hoping that this link works - my lovely friend Julie came to help me with sorting out a few problems with my blog - well with me actually - trying to add things to my blog -especially 'links' - thanks Julie, hope the link to your fab website works!!

Here is a card I made using bits from my scrap box....as any good crafter knows, we hate to throw anything away! I think that the papers are Basic Grey.....other than that I have no idea what else I have used, but pleased with the result!

Enjoy the rest of your day.....!!

Elaine x

CRAFTING.....YOU MUST BE JOKING!!!

2009-04-23T08:27:00.000-07:00

I had all good intentions of sitting and doing some cards today, as had done all the cleaning etc yesterday....but no, hubby wanted to sort the garage out and for me to decide what was to stay, bin or go to a car bootie........guess who won??!!

I did however make this one for the Stamp With us weekly challenge.

The theme is shades of 'chocolate' colours (just have to work out now how to link it to their site!)

enjoy your day!

Elaine x

JUST POPPING BY....

2009-04-22T02:43:00.000-07:00

Just nipping in to do a quick post in between washing and cleaning (I know on a beautiful day like today...and also on my Wedding Anniversary!!) Just started cleaning a cupboard out and then, you can't stop!! BIG MISTAKE!!

Just thought I would show you what I made for my friend ..

she loves to write letters - hates computers and can't understand why people prefer to type an email rather than write!!

So I made her a small writing set..

I used a sheet of A4 card folded it but made sure I made a small 'spine' so that it would take the bulk of the envelopes and cards!

I used some paper to cover the spine and part of the cover to strengthen it, and punched out some flowers using the SU scalloped punch and some white prima flowers in the centre and a brad to finish off.

I decorated the inside with the same paper as on the cover, but made sure I didn't stick down too tightly at the edges, otherwise there would be no give for the cards/envelopes!

I then made some cards, stamped a small design on the cards and envelopes. I popped some stamps in - posted it off and she LOVED it! (She actually wrote a thank you on one and posted it to me!)

Hope you like the idea...it makes a nice quick personal pressie!

enjoy your day!

Elaine xx

PLEASE LEAVE ME A COMMENT AS I LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU THINK OF MY CREATIONS!!

GOOD OR BAD!

DIFFERENT TECHNIQUE..

2009-04-19T03:24:00.000-07:00

Hi there
Hope you are enjoying this lovely Sunday morning.
I regularly go to Art from the Heart at Harrogate where the fantastic Dyan Reaveley
teaches classes (I have learnt everything I know from going!!)I really love learning all the different techniques she shows, so I thought I might have a go at home using the stamping up pads. hese are the cards I have made and I will try to describe how I did them!

I decided to go for something really bright - so I used the Pink Passion and Opulent Orchid pads. I used a piece of the white card and gently using some sponge, rubbed the ink from the pads on to the paper in different places - then made sure they merged together not leaving any lines. The next thing was to flick water onto the paper so that you get little 'droplet' marks - leave it to dry, and then cut up and use as background for your cards!

It makes a lovely effect and it is my FAVOURITE!!! I like to tear the paper and ink the edges too - hope you like them!

Elaine xxx

HERE'S ONE I MADE EARLIER!

2009-04-18T01:10:00.000-07:00

Sorry the photos aren't fantastic!

I made this card quite large - I used a piece of Haiki paper and glued across the centre of the card. I then layered strips made together of More Mustard/Old Olive and then some Old Olive ribbon - and attached this centrally on the paper.

I sat and coloured in the SU A TREE FOR ALL SEASONS and then stamped them on to cream card - cut them equally into 4 ...then remembering that Spring is first (not Summer like I originally did!), place the stamped images onto some Old Olive card, and then using dimensionals attach to More Mustard Card. Attach this to the card. Add a sentiment...

Really pleased with the result!

Elaine xx

I'M BACK!!!

2009-04-18T01:04:00.000-07:00

Hi there.....sorry didn't get chance to post the winner of the blog as promised last night, but had to take to my bed on Tuesday with a viral infection...so not been on the computer or done any crafting at all (must be poorly!!)

Anyway, I am pleased to announce that the chosen winner for the Blog Candy(by my hubby) was Mrs Dobbo - so if you could contact me with your address and full name - I will post them out to you...CONGRATULATIONS!!

thank you to everyone who left me a comment and a link - I am so grateful!

Elaine x

BLOG CANDY....as promised...

2009-04-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

THIS BLOG CANDY IS NOW CLOSED

here is the Blog Candy I promised earlier.

It is a huge bundle of 'all things for crafting' (stickers/die cuts/templates/letter stickers/tags etc)

For a chance to win, please leave me a comment and a link, and the lucky winner will be drawn on Friday 17th April at 8pm

Good luck everyone!

Elaine x

FEELING ALL BRIGHT AND BOLD!

2009-04-13T02:52:00.000-07:00

During my afternoon in my workroom the other afternoon, I decided to be brave and go for making cards using the bold brights..bit out of my comfort zone, but was really pleased with the results.

I used the blue and green CS from SU - everything else from my own stash

hope you like!

enjoy your day

Elaine x

............and going back to make more now!

CALL BACK LATER TODAY WHEN MY BLOG CANDY WILL BE POSTED!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

what a beautiful day it has turned out to be here in Yorkshire...completely the opposite to what the weather man said!!

Just had a trip to the garden centre to get some plants in ready for planting out once we have finished with the frosts.

Yesterday I sat in my workroom for most of the afternoon just playing with stamps and card and generally having a fun time!

I made this sweet little cup as a try out from an old template I found in my box - not sure where it came from, but had to adapt it as for some reason it wouldn't fit together properly, so I rescored the lines and made the base abit bigger and finally, it worked!

so here is my attempt....

I used Lavender Lace CS and some strips of paper from my stash, inked the edges and scallop edged them, and then punched some little flowers out and added them to each panel. Added some purple gems to the centre of each one, and faux stitched round them .

Going to have a go next stamping on the card to see how that works!

Looking at this cup has made me thirsty so off to make a 'real' cuppa!

Elaine x

Oh for a quiet day....

2009-04-09T07:35:00.001-07:00

I had hoped for a nice quiet day today where I could do some card making and listen to my music........forget that idea! The plumber came to sort the heating out again......to flush the system through (not me personally thankfully!) so everything has been upside down - no hot water or heating till maybe tomorrow.....so fed up that I haven't been in my work room...

Here is another card I made using bits n bobs I found when clearing out my craft room...

The image is from Crafty Individuals from a sheet called Love Letters. I have also used Lavender Lace and Pretty in Pink CS, Blue Brocade ribbon and the flowers are from my 'new found stash'!!

pop back tomorrow for the next Blog Candy!!

Elaine x

BLOG CANDY WINNER....

2009-04-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

Well, my husband has just chosen a number for the winner of the Blog Candy .....and the lucky person is number 9...IZABELA!!! So, Izabela if you would email me your address, I can then send your prize on it's way - my email address is listed at the side bar.

Thank you to all of you who were kind enough to leave me a comment - please come back and try again at the weekend for some special Easter Blog Candy!

As I mentioned...I have cleaned my craft room out and tried to organise it abit better - I also found things I had forgotten I had - so have been creative......you will have to keep coming back for a look to see!

Today though, I have made a little gift bag using some scraps of SU ingredients!

It is only 3 x 3.5 inches high by 3 inches wide. The front folds down to reveal a pocket where you can put your gift (in my case choccies!)

It is really easy to make and if anyone would like the template, I will be happy to share it if you would be kind enough to link my blog to yours! Just email me and I will send to you.

(Sorry the photos aren't really good - still trying with the camera!!)

(Lavender Lace / Pretty in Pink CS - Tea Party Paper - Stamp trees - Sentiment Simply Said - Regal Rose Ribbon)

Thanks and call again soon!!

Elaine x

Cleaning the Craft Room.....

2009-04-06T08:09:00.000-07:00

I decided today to clean my craft room and sort out all the rubbish, and try to get everything in some sort of order.......well, it looks clean and tidy, but as for the putting things in order, that was just impossible - TOO MUCH STASH!! so, look out for more BLOG CANDY in the next few days!

Unfortunately, you can't really see this card very well - my camera flash is playing up, so sorry for the disappointing photo.

(Close to Cocoa/More Mustard/Old Olive CS, Haiku papers, Ribbon Pumpkin Pie, Sentiment Simply Said, Stamp Forest Friends)

Don't forget that the Blog Candy finishes on Wednesday - then there will be some more!

Elaine x

What a busy day.... and BLOG CANDY GIVEAWAY!!

2009-04-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

We got up this morning and decided to go to Castleford Freeport to have a look.....unfortunately, no craft shops there - much to Dave's delight! We both got some really good bargains - all the ski wear in one of the shops was all reduced as they were closing the ski section...I picked up a ski jacket for next winter reduced to £15 from £75! (Can't wait for the bad weather now so I can wear it!) We then went in to the Rockport shop (I wasn't all that interested..) and everything was buy one get one free...on everything!! Dave got himself 2 pairs of Reebok trainers for £45 and what a happy chappy he was! When I think about it, it was mostly him that got all the bargains - a suit at Next for £27....2 suitcases at £20 each (from £70)....2 shirts at £1 each from Next---he has such a nose for bargains! I just got a shirt from M & S Outlet..oh, and some choccies from Thorntons!

THIS BLOG CANDY IS NOW CLOSED

Well, enough of all that....here is some BLOG CANDY to give away.....

A MiniPocket Bookz Kit (Laugh Kit) from Top Line Creations

(4x4 Pocket Book - Paper Stackz - Floss - Rub ons - Tiny Tags - card Stars - Eyelets)

To be in with a chance of winning - please leave a comment and a link to your website, and the winner will be randomly selected on Wednesday 8th April at 8pm

Good Luck!

Elaine x

2009-04-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

Had a really busy day today, as took my mum out for lunch as a 'belated Mother's Day' surprise. We went out into the Yorkshire Dales to visit....a Craft Shop! Then back nearer to home for some lunch at a lovely little place where all the food is home cooked and the baking is just out of this world. We had a lovely time, and it was nice to have some time together to chat and laugh! I got home and my poor hubby was on his knees in the cloakroom, trying to fix the radiator which has developed a leak. We have had a new toilet and sink fitted, and our son in law has done a fantastic job tiling it all - but we can't get rid of the leak! So, now we have a slow drip, and now the boiler won't work to heat the water and radiators up - so it is freezing. No card making tonight in my craft room, as it will be like working in an igloo!

I think I have cracked the blog with photo!!!

it just shows that if you read the instructions carefully and several times.....it does work!!

Now that I have worked it out - I will arrange a Blog Candy giveaway this weekend...so watch this space.

Elaine x

(PS can't remember what I used for this card as it was made a while ago!)

Excited!!!

2009-04-01T01:42:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for this day- and not because it is April Fools Day - as have many of my SU sisters, to order from the Mini Catalogue....it's so exciting!

Have put my order in, and can't wait for it all to come (tomorrow would be good...but understand it will take a little longer than that!)

Getting stuck in today making more cards for display using the new papers and stamps - have already done some, but in the 'flow' now!

Washing, ironing, housework..............DIRTY WORDS!!! don't say or think about them today!

love Elaine xxx

No need to have worried!!

2009-03-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

Well, was I in a panic yesterday - my first workshop and the SU parcel hadn't arrived......and then it came at around 9am and all was well!!

Everything was set up ready for people coming, but with no idea just exactly how many would turn up. Half seven, the start of the evening and only 2 people....within 10 minutes there were 12! Some new to crafting, some seasoned crafters. We were that busy that I forgot to take photos! The last people left at just before 11pm having had (I think) a really enjoyable night. I introduced my new workshops and I already have bookings for these - so all in all a really good night.

So, thankyou all for coming along and having a go with the make and takes, and also for supporting me as my 'guinea pigs' for the first workshop. I look forward to many happy hours crafting with you!

love Elaine xx

My First Workshop.....aaahhhh!!

2009-03-29T03:26:00.000-07:00

Panicking now, as it would appear that an order I placed almost 2 weeks ago has not arrived, and after trying to chase it up, I hear from my SU mum that some parcels have gone missing!! PANIC STATIONS!!

Well, will just have to revise my plans and re think the situation...calmly......yeah right!

So, today, in amongst my son in law tiling the bathroom, and my hubby hovering, I am going to get stuck in and create some more ideas....it will be fine I tell myself......lots of butterflies hovering in the stomach area....

So, will report back later to let you know how it all went - keep your fingers crossed!

Elaine x

At Long Last.....

2009-03-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone and welcome to my first blog entry - it's taken some doing, but I got there!

Well what does one write on a blog, other than daily 'ramblings'! well, can I 'ramble' for England.....absolutely! I have read so many blogs now of various types, and they all sound absolutely fantastic with lots of info and interesting bits, but now I have come to mine, and it is like sitting with a pile of crafting things, and wondering what to make.

So, I will show a card and see what response I get - and go from there!

Usually, it is a fight to see who can get to use the computer first - hubby or me....well, it will be me from now on, and I will give him a couple of jobs to do whilst doing so - those of you who know him, know that he is a 'Mr Fix It' and makes a cracking good cuppa too, so I will find him plenty of things to occupy him!

so, thanks for reading the 'first issue' and hope you will return for the next

Elaine x